Know the CMAT Exam Pattern 2026 with 100 MCQs across 5 sections in a 3‑hour exam, +4 marks for correct answers and -1 for wrong answers to plan your preparation effectively.
The NTA provided the CMAT exam pattern. The CMAT question paper contains 100 multiple-choice questions on quantitative techniques and data interpretation, logical reasoning, language comprehension, general awareness, and innovation and entrepreneurship. CMAT has a total of 400 marks. The CMAT is a moderate difficulty exam. Read all about the CMAT 2026 exam format, including the examination structure, sectional weightage, marking method, and so on.
CMAT Exam Pattern Highlights
CMAT is a prominent MBA entrance exam in India, with scores approved by over 1,300 business schools. The exam has a straightforward format, but because it is dependent on speed, it can be difficult for a candidate who is not properly prepared. The CMAT 2026 exam pattern will be the same as in previous years. The following are the features of the CMAT exam pattern 2026 and test structure:
|
Specification |
Details |
|
Mode |
Online Mode |
|
Type |
Computer-based Test (CBT) |
|
Number of Sections |
5 Sections (20 Questions Each) |
|
Sections |
Language Comprehension, Quantitative Techniques, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, and General Awareness. |
|
Type of Questions |
MCQs |
|
Number of Questions |
100 |
|
Total Marks |
400 |
|
Marking |
+4 marks for a Correct answer |
|
Negative Marking |
-1 mark for an incorrect answer (CMAT Negative Marking) |
|
Duration |
3 hours i.e, 180 minutes |
|
Timings |
9:30 to 12:30 |
|
Language |
English |
Also Check: Is Calculator Allowed in CMAT Exam 2026?
CMAT Exam Pattern 2026 Section-wise Break-up
Attempting all questions on the CMAT is optional. To achieve a high overall percentile, applicants should strive to answer two-thirds of the total questions in all parts of the CMAT 2026. Check out the sectional weightage of the most recent CMAT question paper:
|
Sections |
Number of Questions |
Maximum Marks |
|
General Awareness |
20 |
80 |
|
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation |
20 |
80 |
|
Language Comprehension |
20 |
80 |
|
Logical Reasoning |
20 |
80 |
|
Innovation and Entrepreneurship |
20 |
80 |
|
Total |
100 |
400 |
CMAT Exam Marking Scheme
The NTA employs the marking criteria to rectify and validate the answers provided by the candidates. These marking requirements are consistent with the CMAT pattern and are quite significant. Candidates can refer to the CMAT marking scheme provided below.
|
Particulars |
Details |
|
Right answer |
+4 |
|
Wrong answer |
-1 |
|
Blank question |
No deduction |
Crack CMAT 2026 the Smart Way: Tips & Strategy
Check out the tips and strategy to crack the CMAT exam:
- For CMAT exam preparation 2026, applicants must devise a practical and workable strategy.
- Starting exam preparation six months in advance is recommended because the CMAT is a moderately demanding exam.
- However, if you have not studied Maths since Class 10, you should brush up on the basics before beginning full-fledged CMAT training.
- Also, if you're taking the CMAT for the first time, you should start preparing at least 9 months in advance.
- If your English comprehension is poor, begin CMAT Language Comprehension preparation early.
Related Links:
CMAT Exam Topic-wise Details
Check the chart below to see what topics to cover while preparing for the CMAT 2026 exam:
|
Section |
Syllabus |
|
Quantitative Techniques and Data Interpretation |
Algebra, arithmetic, geometry, and number systems |
|
Logical Reasoning |
Syllogism, clocks, calendars, series, family tree, coding-decoding, blood relations, abstract reasoning |
|
Language Comprehension |
English grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension passages |
|
General Awareness |
Current affairs, awards, events, economy, business, sports, culture, and society |
|
Innovation & Entrepreneurship |
Business concepts, theories related to entrepreneurship |
Conclusion
The CMAT 2026 exam pattern makes it easy for aspirants to formulate a good exam strategy for preparation. The pattern comprises five significant areas for assessing aptitude, reasoning ability, language, and general awareness. Aspirants aware of the test pattern can easily sharpen their strong points, improve their time management skills, and meet the test with confidence and clarity.
